The winter season in India has tightened its icy grip, as intense cold waves and record-breaking low temperatures continue to disrupt daily life across the country. While the Himalayan regions, including Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir Valley, have witnessed a slight increase in minimum temperatures, the northern plains and parts of eastern India remain under the relentless onslaught of severe cold and biting winds. Here’s a detailed account of the current weather conditions affecting various parts of the country.
Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir Valley Witness Slight Relief
In Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, a marginal rise in minimum temperatures has brought some respite from the extreme cold. For instance:
- In Srinagar, the minimum temperature climbed to -3.4°C, up from the previous night’s -4.6°C.
- Popular tourist destinations like Gulmarg recorded -3.8°C, which is 4°C higher than earlier.
- At Pahalgam, a base for the Amarnath Yatra, the mercury registered -4.8°C, a 3°C improvement over the prior night.
In Himachal Pradesh, the lack of precipitation has kept the cold in check, with areas like Shimla recording a relatively warm minimum temperature of 12.2°C, a rise of 3°C over two days. Even Kufri, known for its snowy allure, reported 9.8°C.
Northern Plains: Severe Cold Wave Continues
The situation in the northern plains, however, remains dire. Punjab and Haryana, two states accustomed to harsh winters, have recorded temperatures plunging below 5°C in many regions:
- Faridkot (Punjab): Registered the lowest temperature in the plains at 1°C.
- Hisar (Haryana): Reported a bone-chilling 1.7°C, maintaining its position as one of the coldest places in the region.
In Rajasthan, known for its extremes, temperatures have dipped below freezing in certain areas:
- Fatehpur: Witnessed sub-zero temperatures for the third consecutive day, with the mercury falling well below 0°C.
- Other towns, including Churu, Bhilwara, and Pilani, recorded temperatures below 5°C.
Eastern and Central India: Plunging Temperatures Widespread
Eastern states like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha have also felt the brunt of the cold wave. Notably:
- Mayurbhanj district (Odisha): Recorded a staggering -10°C, marking an unprecedented low.
- In Chhattisgarh and Vidarbha, minimum temperatures have dipped significantly, leading to widespread frost in rural areas.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for severe cold wave conditions to persist in parts of central India over the next three days.
Cold Wave Alerts for Upcoming Days
The IMD has forecasted extensive cold wave conditions across:
- Northwest India for the next five days.
- Madhya Pradesh, with warnings extended till December 16.
- Eastern Rajasthan, expected to see cold winds until December 20.
States like Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh are on high alert, as temperatures are expected to remain near freezing point.
Rainfall in South India: A Stark Contrast
While the northern and central parts of India battle freezing temperatures, southern states like Tamil Nadu are reeling under the impact of heavy rainfall. Due to a developing low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, the IMD has predicted:
- Heavy to very heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and the Lakshadweep Islands.
- Severe waterlogging in districts like Thoothukudi, disrupting daily life.
Impacts of the Severe Cold Wave
The harsh winter conditions have taken a toll on various sectors:
- Agriculture: Frost damage is affecting crops in northern and central India.
- Health: Hospitals report a rise in cases of respiratory illnesses and hypothermia.
- Transport: Dense fog has caused delays and cancellations of flights and trains, especially in cities like Delhi and Lucknow.
How to Stay Safe During the Cold Wave
We recommend the following precautions to protect yourself from the extreme cold:
- Wear multiple layers of clothing and ensure exposed areas are covered.
- Use heating appliances responsibly to prevent hazards.
- Limit outdoor activities during the early morning and late evening hours.
- Stay hydrated and consume warm, nutritious meals.
